Musicial biopics are often made, but how often do they center on the drummer? Hardly ever, and if they do, they’re utterly non mainstream. So, if you’re a drummer yourself, or interested in classic rock, get ready to revel in the news that Dennis Wilson, of Beach Boys fame, is getting his own film. And to play him? None other than Aaron Eckhart, who will perform songs himself rather than mime.
Eckhart has been a big name for a while, especially since Thank You For Smoking, but he is especially hot at the moment. He recently landed the lead in I, Frankenstein and will be starring in the upcoming Johnny Depp starrer The Rum Diary. As for the Wilson film, it is to be directed by Randy Miller (Bottleshock) and has adopted the highly creative title of The Drummer. In more promising news, the makers have secured a deal to acquire music rights.
The story shall center on the last 6 years of Wilson‘s life, before he died in 1983. It shall also feature songs from his solo album, Pacific Ocean Blue, which he released in 1977. Miller seemed excited about the project and had this to say:
“We’d been trying to figure out who the right person would be to fill this role. It’s quite a demanding role so it had to be a great actor who could sing.”
Shooting is scheduled to begin next year.
Are you excited for a biopic of a drummer? Does the choice of Aaron Eckhart appeal to you?
[Variety]